It stands to reason that physical fitness is an important part of being a security guard. However, guards can sometimes struggle to remain in good shape.
While the gym is the obvious place to exercise, it’s not always possible to find the time so thankfully there are other ways guards can maintain overall wellness and fitness while on duty.
The importance of keeping fit
Security guards need to remain alert and quick on their feet since they never know when they may need to respond to the unexpected. Whether that be an armed robber or someone acting suspiciously. Not being fit, could place a guard’s life in danger as well as those they are meant to be protecting.
Being mentally alert and physically fit, also means a guard is more likely to realise that something untoward is going on and will be able to respond more successfully.
Here are 4 top tips for ways that security guards can improve their fitness levels and do their job more effectively.
Use the stairs
It can be tempting to jump into the escalator but one of the best ways to maintain fitness on the job is to use the stairs. Research has proven that climbing stairs helps improve cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and reduces the risk of strokes.
It also uses more calories than jogging and impacts the knees less than running.
Stretch for wellness
Stretching is another way for guards to improve their wellness while on duty, particularly if they are stationary and only moving infrequently from one checkpoint to another. Remaining seated for a long period can cause hamstrings to tighten which will affect walking and running.
Even basic stretching can make the muscles stronger and more flexible and that, in turn, can aid joint health.
Eat healthily
While junk food such as burgers, pies, chips, and sugary foods are tempting, anyone conscious about their weight and health needs to steer clear of them. Fitness starts with good nutrition and foods that provide protein, minerals, and essential vitamins.
Carbohydrates may produce a short burst of energy but ultimately they lead to a person feeling sluggish and less alert. Try exchanging carbs for salads, nuts, whole grain bread, dried fruit, and yoghurts and drink plenty of water to remain hydrated.
Encourage mental fitness
Mental and physical fitness go hand in hand, so a guard needs to develop and improve both. Not being stimulated on the job can lead to lethargy, distraction, and eating out of boredom. Learning a new language and using tome on duty to memorise new words will help exercise the brain as with brain-training exercises.
Even learning how to type up reports properly and tidy up your handwriting will give the grey matter a good workout.
Promoting health and fitness amongst staff always pays off. Not only will your security guards feel healthier, but they will be more alert, and their reaction times will be faster, too.
We encourage all our staff to keep fit and healthy in order to provide the best service to our clients. MASG provides tailored solutions for cleaning, security and maintenance and is committed to working closely with our clients to provide the best support. To find out more about our services and how we can help your business, give us a call on 1300 020 406.
